Koloale 1 – Western United 1

Jeffery Bule came in as a substitute after the halftime break and put Western United in front in the 80th minute with a shot to the top corner of the net leading to lively celebrations from his bench. The celebrations were not transferred to the dressing room as Koloale equalised after a series of counteroffensives on the Western United goal in the dying stages of the game. Fa’arodo was given too much space at the edge of the 18 yard box and his shot beat Shadrack Ramoni as well as the referee’s whistle to end the match.This was shortly after Koloale’s Jared Rongosulia was red carded for picking up his second yellow after persistent fouling and a lacklustre performance from him in the midfield. Fa’arodo, on the other hand, was strong throughout the match but lacked a striking partner following the depature of Joe Luwi from the club. Incidentally, Luwi was in the opposition line up and enjoying no form of luck despite having Joses Nawo and Benjamin Totori beside him.The first half was equally frustrating for both sides as the afternoon heat sucked all the creativity from the pitch leaving the game tasteless with a number of attacks that died down without intent. Even from the stands, watching the game against the glare of the sun was almost unbearable. The situation was match better in the second half and that is when you saw life emanate from the two camps. However, all either could muster was one goal a piece and a resultant draw.

About SIFF

Football is officially recognised as the national sport in the Solomon Islands. With numerous competitions running year-round, the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) has a busy time ensuring the game continues to grow and develop. SIFF was founded in 1978 and became a full FIFA member in 1988 largely thanks to the late Alan Boso who saw the potential of Solomon Islands football. Since then the association has grown from strength to strength.